Factors can be defined as element, circumstance, or

number that influences a result or situation. In the context

of mathematics and cryptography, factorization is the
process of expressing a number or mathematical object
as a product of several factors, usually smaller or simpler
objects of the same kind. This is essential for solving
algebraic problems and public-key cryptography.(Google)
In mathematics, a factor is a number that can be
multiplied or divided to produce a given number. For
example, 5 and 8 are factors of 40. Factors can be
positive integers, and they are used to express a given
number as a product of smaller or simpler objects.
(Google)
Factor can also be found in the context of decision-
making where factors are considered relevant elements
that contribute to a particular outcome or situation. For
example, in the content of career choice among senior
high students, peer influence can be a factor that affects
their decisions (Google).

Factors in career choice

1. Financial stability -Financial stability is a condition
in which an economy's mechanisms for pricing, allocating,
and managing financial risks (credit, liquidity, counter
party, market, etc.) are functioning well enough to
contribute to the performance of the economy (as
defined above). Schinasi (2004).
2.Parental education background - Parent
educational background is a parental characteristic which
has been studied as a variable in predicting a childs
educational attainment. The concept is related to both
family socioeconomic level and parental occupation and
some effort has been made to partial out the effects of
these variables. (Google).
3.Peer pressure - peer pressure is the process by
which members of the same social group influence other
members to do things that they may be resistant to, or
might not otherwise choose to do. Peers are people who
are part of the same social group, so the term "peer
pressure" refers to the influence that peers can have on
each other. (Google)
4. Personal perspective - Personal perspectives are
formed by the layered aspects that form our individual
identities. This could be any number of defining aspects
such as, gender, class, race, where you were born and
raised, education, aspects of family, group affiliations,
etc., and the list goes on. (Google)

Financial stability refers to the ability to maintain a

consistent level of income or resources over time, which
allows individuals to cover their expenses and plan for the
future. (Google).
Financial stability is a factor that affects the career
choices of incoming senior high school students,
according to the study of ETTMNHS SY 2017-2018 found
that financial stability is a significant factor that can
affect the career choices of senior high school students.
The study conducted among 10 Grade 10 students
sampled through purposive sampling. The questionnaire
consisted of questions regarding their financial stability,
their career choice, if it is affected by their financial
stability, and in what way it was affected. The
respondents initially wanted to take courses that are too
expensive for their financial status, such as tourism and
law. However, they answered that they have also prepared
a second choice, which is not only less expensive than
their first choice but also requires lesser years of study,
which can, therefore, lessen expenses of their family.
Some expressed interest in taking up a technical-
vocational course to be able to apply to degree-holder
level jobs after senior high school graduation. The
respondents indicated that besides applying for various
scholarship programs, they will also start looking for part-
time jobs while studying to help them raise money for
their desired course.
Many students prioritize financial stability over
personal passion, choosing careers that offer financial
security and job stability over their true interests and
aspirations. Additionally, financial considerations, such as
paying for family expenses, can also influence students'
career choices. It is important for students to find a
balance between financial stability and personal
fulfillment when making career decisions, as prioritizing
both financial well-being and heartfelt aspirations can
lead to more effective career choices. (Google)

The educational background of parents refers to the

level of education attained by parents. The educational
background of parents can significantly influence the
career choices of senior high school students (Google).
According to a study of OppusuPaapaAgyiri, Felix in
the Kwahu-East District, Ghana (2020) parental level of
education had a positive effect on the students'
educational and occupational aspirations. The study
found that students whose parents had higher levels of
education were more likely to aspire to higher education
and professional careers.
Another study conducted of Mbagwu and Ajaegbu
(2016) found that the educational level of parents
influenced students' career choice pursuit. The study
found that students whose parents had higher levels of
education were more likely to pursue professional careers.

Peer pressure is a phenomenon where individuals

conform to the actions or decisions of others under the
assumption that those actions are reflective of the
correct behavior. It can have a significant influence on
various aspects of life, including career choices among
senior high students. (Google)
The impact of peer pressure on career choices among
senior high students can be observed in several ways.
Influence on career decisions- Students are
influenced by their peers in making career decisions, and
this influence can be positive or negative. Peer pressure
can provide accurate career information, but it can also
lead to misinformation about certain careers, causing
students to make unsuitable choices.
Lack of competence - Peer pressure can lead to a lack
of competence in one's chosen field, as students may
struggle to meet the course's academic requirements.
This can result in dissatisfaction and poor performance in
their chosen careers.
Dissatisfaction - Students who choose a career based
on peer pressure rather than their interests may
experience dissatisfaction with their chosen career,
leading to emotions of regret and dissatisfaction.
Peer pressure can significantly influence career
choices among senior high students. It is essential for
students to be aware of the impact of peer pressure on
their career decisions and take steps to mitigate its
influence by seeking guidance, developing self-awareness,
and setting personal goals. (Google)

Personal perspective refers to an individual's unique

set of beliefs, values, interests, and experiences that
shape their view of the world. Personal perspective can
significantly influence career choice among senior high
students. Students' career choices are influenced by their
grades, ages, personal interests, and experiences, among
other factors. Personal interests, in particular, have been
identified as critical factors in choosing a career path.
Students who choose a career based on their personal
interests are more likely to be satisfied with their career
choices and perform better in their chosen fields.
Personal perspective can influence students' self-
efficacy, which is the belief in their ability to succeed in
their chosen careers. Students with a strong sense of self
-efficacy are more likely to pursue careers that align with
their interests and abilities. Therefore, it is essential for
students to develop self-awareness and understand their
personal perspectives to make informed decisions about
their future careers. (Google)

Emotions are conscious mental reactions (such as

anger or fear) subjectively experienced as strong feelings
usually directed toward a specific object and typically
accompanied by physiological and behavioral changes in
the body (Google).
Valach, Young, and Lynam (1996) argue that
awareness of one's emotions is essential in making a
career decision for three reasons: (a) emotions drive
decision-making, (b) emotions provide information about
the self, and (c) emotions provide information about the
environment.
In the process of choosing a specific career direction
can lead to stress, anxiety, and uncertainty, which may
result in delays in making career decisions. Emotional
factors, such as feelings of competence, happiness, and
self-confidence, can influence students' career choices.
Emotional intelligence has been identified as an important
factor in career decision-making, as it can help individuals
become more aware of their emotions and make
informed decisions about their careers .Furthermore,
Emotional intelligence is unique and can help students
build their employ ability skills, as it involves the ability to
understand and manage one's own emotions and the
emotions of others, which are valuable in the workplace.
(Google).

The physical aspect can influence the career choice

of senior high students in various ways. Factors such as
physical size, health, and abilities can impact the career
decisions of students. For example, students' physical
abilities and health may influence their inclination towards
certain careers, such as sports, healthcare, or manual
labor. Physical health can affect students' confidence and
readiness to pursue specific career paths. The physical
environment and available opportunities can also
influence students' career choices.
It is important for students to consider how their
physical well-being and abilities align with their career
interests and to explore opportunities that accommodate
their individual physical characteristics and health status.
(Google)

The term "mental" refers to the psychological and

emotional aspects of an individual. In the context of
choosing a career, mental factors can have a significant
effect on senior high students. Career indecision,
depressive symptoms, anxiety, and negative thoughts can
influence students' career choices.
Career indecision- Students with mental health issues
may experience difficulty in making career decisions,
leading to career indecision.
Depressive symptoms- Depression can negatively
impact students' ability to envision themselves in specific
careers and may lead to a lack of motivation in exploring
different career options
Anxiety- Anxiety can make it challenging for students
to focus on their strengths and interests, which can hinder
their ability to make informed career choices.
Negative thoughts- Negative thoughts can influence
students' perceptions of their abilities and opportunities,
leading to limited career options.
Addressing these mental health issues through career
guidance and other support systems can help students
make more informed decisions about their future careers
(Google)